Heatwave set to scorch the UK next week
A heatwave is set to scorch the UK next week with temperatures set to reach 29c within the next few days. After a miserable June washout which saw the country blighted by strong winds and heavy rain for, Brits can look forward to being baked in sunshine at the end of this week.
Having already faced temperatures 3C to 5C below the season average over the past few weeks , temperatures are set to be cranked up as hot weather traveling across Europe from North Africa reaches these shores. Thursday's warm weather saw Royal Ascot punters make the most of the sunshine on day three of the marquee racing event - with floral summer dresses, vibrant frocks and eye-catching headpieces all on display.
Next week's forecast will also please the 200,000 music lovers attending Glastonbury next week, with gates opening for the five-day festival on Wednesday (June 26). Neil Armstrong is a Met Office chief forecaster. He said: 'After a brief, less settled, interlude on Friday and Saturday, fine conditions will return by Sunday and into next week. For much of the UK this will be accompanied by a boost in temperatures with many places reaching the mid-20°Cs by the middle of next week.
'Some central and southern areas are likely to see temperatures approaching the values needed for heatwave conditions. Heatwave conditions need to remain in situ for three consecutive days, and by the middle of next week it is possible that some parts of the UK could be reaching heatwave thresholds. 'However, whether or not everyone experiences heatwave thresholds, the majority of the UK will experience the finest conditions and highest temperatures so far this year.'
In the UK, a heatwave is defined as a prolonged period of abnormally high temperatures, relative to the expected conditions at that given time and place. If the daily maximum temperature meets or exceeds this value set by the Met Office for three consecutive days, it's classified as a heatwave. The colder weather experienced throughout the spring months was due to cold winds blowing in from the Arctic.
But now conditions are set to change, with forecasters predicting a high chance of warmer and more settled weather this weekend, with southerly winds bringing hot, continental air and a rise in temperatures. Although there is a chance that some isolated weather stations could record 30°C around the middle of next week, overnight temperatures will be lower, providing some respite for those who struggle with hot conditions.
The warmer weather will likely see large numbers of people head to the UK's coastal areas to make the most of the conditions. For those looking to take a dip in the sea to cool off in the heat, RNLI has warmed about the risk of cold water shock and being safe in open water. Samantha Hughes, National Water Safety Partner at the RNLI said: 'The forecasted warm weather will mean we'll see more visitors at the coast and we always want people to enjoy themselves safely.
'Entering the water during warm weather can increase the risk of cold water shock due to the sudden changes in skin temperatures. Enter the water gradually and avoid jumping or diving straight in to reduce your risk of cold-water shock. 'If you're planning on heading to the beach, we highly recommend you visit one that is lifeguarded and you swim between the red and yellow flags. This is the safest area and is most closely monitored by lifeguards.
'If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live. Tilt your head back with ears submerged and try to relax and control your breathing. Use your hands to help you stay afloat and then call for help or swim to safety if you can. 'In an emergency at the coast, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard or ask for the fire service if you are near inland waters.'
